At the University of Oklahoma, we are dedicated to cultivating a supportive, healthy, and engaging workplace where every employee has the opportunity to thrive both personally and professionally. Inspired by our purpose, We Change Lives, and rooted in our core values of Excellence, Opportunity and Success, Boldness, Freedom of Expression and Civility, and Civic Commitment, we strive to create a culture that champions well-being, fosters meaningful engagement, and promotes lasting satisfaction for all members of our community.
Senior leaders play a critical role in shaping engagement and encouraging the employee voice. To help build awareness and excitement, we've gathered templates and simple engagement ideas that encourage faculty and staff to take a few minutes to share their feedback.
Small gestures, consistent communication, and visible leadership support can help create a culture where every employee feels their feedback matters. Explore the tools below for ready-to-use templates and ideas to help your team reach its participation goals.
September 24, 2026
As the University of Oklahoma experiences remarkable momentum and strives for even greater impact, we know a committed and engaged workforce is crucial...
The first two surveys provided valuable insights into our strengths, progress, and areas for growth. We know this year’s data will prove just as essential as we create an environment where excellent people can succeed...
"At the College of Pharmacy, we approach engagement as a relationship-building effort rather than a score-building exercise. The Gallup Q12 survey helps identify opportunities, but the most meaningful insights often come from listening to faculty and staff through everyday conversations. By offering a variety of opportunities, from Coffee Connections and Walk It Out Wednesdays to appreciation events and wellness activities, we've created multiple ways for people to connect. I've learned that engagement isn't about getting everyone involved in every activity. It's about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued. When that happens, engagement becomes a natural outcome rather than the goal itself."
"Our approach to increasing engagement is centered on the officers and staff who make our success possible. When you ask our officers what would improve their work experience, many point to having the right materials and equipment to do their jobs effectively. Last year's Gallup Q12 survey confirmed that message, and we responded by reprioritizing our budget to address those needs. As a result, we were able to provide Mobile Data Terminals and equipment to issue e-citations that not only made officers' jobs easier but also reduced workload for our dispatch team. Improving engagement begins with listening to your people, understanding what they need, and taking meaningful action based on their feedback."
“Employee engagement is critical to OU IT because technology services are delivered through people. After reviewing our Gallup Q12 results, our Employee Engagement Committee identified employee recognition as an area of focus and developed recommendations to strengthen how we celebrate contributions and recognize success across the organization. From expanding peer-to-peer recognition opportunities to providing leadership training and highlighting team accomplishments, our efforts are focused on helping employees feel valued and connected. One of the most important lessons we've learned is that engagement works best when employees are part of the solution. Honest feedback, consistent communication, and meaningful follow-through create a culture where people know their contributions matter."
We use the Gallup Q12, a research-backed tool, to measure and strengthen employee engagement among our faculty and staff. Centered around 12 key statements proven to drive high performance, the Q12 helps us:
Rooted in a hierarchy of workplace needs, from clarity of expectations to opportunities for growth, the Q12 provides us with actionable insights to help build a more supportive, connected, and thriving campus community.
Conducting employee engagement surveys at regular intervals will provide OU the tools to improve the employee experience. Measuring employee engagement assists OU in identifying areas of strength and opportunity leading to programs that will assist in the development of effective employee recruitment and retention strategies, making OU an employer of choice.
Employee engagement is a term used to determine if an employee or group of employees is motivated and enthusiastic about their workplace. Engaged employees are mentally and emotionally connected to their team and their organization.
An employee engagement survey refers to a series of questions used to gauge how motivated and happy an organization's employees are. Gallup, the university's partner for this employee engagement survey, is a recognized world leader in engagement surveys.
According to Gallup, engaged employees produce better outcomes. Institutions that invest in employee engagement experience:
Research from Gallup shows that direct supervisors account for 70% of the difference in team engagement. Working with unit leaders to understand the results for their areas, and supporting them in establishing action items will be critical in affecting change for individual employees and improving their engagement.
Success starts with meeting the essentials. Here at OU, we provide clear expectations, the right tools, and a supportive environment, ensuring every employee has what they need to feel confident, connected, and ready to thrive.
Every faculty and staff member plays a vital role in advancing our academic mission. Excellence happens when you're supported, recognized, and empowered. Your contributions are what enrich our community and drive success.
We believe collaboration drives success. Through clear communication, feedback, and belonging, we create a supportive environment and a where everyone thrives and our shared goals move forward.
At the University of Oklahoma we're committed to your career growth and success, offering ongoing, in-person and online, learning opportunities and a supportive community where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Health Campus Engagement Team Member
Norman Campus Engagement Team Member
